Huaku Sky Garden

Huaku Sky Garden Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide in Taipei, Taiwan

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Located in Taipei’s prestigious Tianmu district, Huaku Sky Garden stands as a striking example of contemporary architecture harmoniously integrated with sustainable urban living. Designed by internationally acclaimed firms including Singapore’s WOHA Architects and Italy’s Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel (ACPV), this luxury residential skyscraper redefines the city’s skyline with its biophilic “vertical garden” concept, earthquake-resistant engineering, and green innovations (WOHA; ACPV Architects).

Completed between 2017 and 2022 (depending on source), Huaku Sky Garden rises to 156 meters with 38 floors above ground, making it the tallest residential tower in Taipei’s Shilin District. While the building is primarily private, it features accessible ground-level gardens and retail spaces, and occasionally opens for guided tours during special events such as Taipei’s Open House program (Huaku Development; Open House Taipei). This guide covers everything you need to know for a meaningful visit: from practical visitor information and architectural highlights to travel tips and nearby attractions.

Historical Background
- Origins and Development
- Timeline and Construction
Architectural Significance
Visitor Information
Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Facts and Figures
Visuals and Media
References and Further Reading
Conclusion and Call to Action

Historical Background

Origins and Development

Set at the base of the Yangmingshan mountain range, Tianmu was historically characterized by low-rise, mid-century apartment blocks influenced by Japanese colonial and post-modernist styles (ArchDaily). Huaku Sky Garden was initiated by Huaku Development Co., Ltd. to address a growing demand for high-quality, earthquake- and typhoon-resistant homes in Taipei. The project brought together WOHA Architects, ACPV, and local partner C.C. Jen Architects and Associates to create a new urban landmark (WOHA).

Timeline and Construction

Planning began in the early 2010s, with construction completed in 2017. The tower reaches 156.7 meters over 38 stories, with four basement levels, becoming a defining feature of Shilin District’s skyline (Skyscraper Center; Wikipedia).

Architectural Significance

Design Philosophy and Structural Innovations

Huaku Sky Garden features twin towers, arranged symmetrically and connected for maximum structural resilience against earthquakes and typhoons—a necessity for Taiwan’s seismic environment. The façade draws inspiration from traditional Chinese joinery and folding screens, merging robust structural frames with intricate metal filigree (WOHA).

The building employs a reinforced concrete core with a steel frame, advanced damping systems for seismic resilience, and high-performance low-emissivity glass and aluminum for optimal thermal insulation (Emporis; CTBUH).

Biophilic and Sustainable Features

A defining characteristic is its extensive greenery: over 1,000 square meters of landscaped sky gardens and double-height terraces foster a vertical oasis (ArchDaily). Ground-level gardens and green walls enhance the pedestrian experience, while interiors maximize natural light, ventilation, and mountain views with open layouts and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The project is certified with Taiwan’s EEWH Green Building Label, incorporating rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient systems, and natural ventilation to optimize sustainability (Taiwan Architecture & Building Center).

Recognition and Awards

Huaku Sky Garden has received international recognition, including awards from The Chicago Athenaeum and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, for its excellence in design and sustainability (Huaku Development).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Public Access: Huaku Sky Garden is a private residential building; public access is limited to exterior gardens and ground-level retail spaces.
Visiting Hours: Outdoor and retail areas are generally accessible daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM; the exterior can be viewed at any time.
Tickets: No ticket is required to access public outdoor areas or retail spaces. Interior or rooftop access is strictly by arrangement, typically via private tours, special events, or invitation.

Accessibility

The site and surrounding public areas feature ramps and smooth sidewalks, facilitating wheelchair access. It is easily reached via public transit (nearest MRT: Shipai or Mingde, followed by a short bus or taxi ride).

Guided Tours and Photography

Guided tours inside the building are rare and usually offered only during events like Open House Taipei (Open House Taipei). Advance registration is required. Photography is permitted from public spaces—please respect residents’ privacy.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) offer mild weather and clear views (Weather2Travel; Luxtripper).
Getting There: Take the MRT Red Line to Shipai or Mingde, then transfer to a local bus or taxi.
Combine Visits: Pair your trip with Yangmingshan National Park, Shilin Night Market, or the Taipei Fine Arts Museum.
Photography Tips: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photos.
Etiquette: Remain on public sidewalks, avoid entering restricted areas, and keep noise to a minimum.

Nearby Attractions

Yangmingshan National Park: Scenic hiking trails and hot springs.
Tianmu Creative Market: Local crafts and weekend events.
Shilin Night Market: Taipei’s largest night market for street food.
Taipei American School & Japanese School: Nearby, reflecting the area’s international community.
Taipei Fine Arts Museum & Grand Hotel: Cultural landmarks a short drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I enter the rooftop or residential areas?
A: No, these are private and accessible only by residents or during special guided tours.

Q: Are there official tours for visitors?
A: Occasionally, during events such as Open House Taipei. Check the official event website for details.

Q: Is the building accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Public outdoor areas are generally accessible; check with event organizers for tour accessibility.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, from public spaces. Please respect residents’ privacy.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited street parking and paid lots are available nearby; public transportation is recommended.

Key Facts and Figures

Location: 8 Tianmu East Road, Shilin District, Taipei, Taiwan
Height: 156.7 meters (514 feet)
Floors: 38 above ground, 4 below ground
Total Floor Area: 47,133 m² (507,335 ft²)
Completion: 2017
Architects: WOHA (design), C.C. Jen Architects and Associates (local partner), ACPV (Zhongshan District project)
Developer: Huaku Development Co., Ltd.
Structural Engineer: New Structure Group
Features: Double-height terraces, sky gardens, green walls, ground-level retail, rooftop amenities (Skyscraper Center; WOHA)

Visuals and Media

High-quality images and virtual tours are available on the WOHA Architects website.
Street views and photos can be found on travel and mapping platforms.
Interactive Map of Huaku Sky Garden and Nearby Attractions

References and Further Reading

Conclusion and Call to Action

Huaku Sky Garden is a beacon of innovative, sustainable architecture and a must-see for visitors interested in urban design, green living, and Taipei’s evolving cityscape. While interior access is limited, its lush façade, ground-level gardens, and proximity to major attractions make it a worthwhile stop on any Taipei itinerary. For the latest on visiting hours, special tours, and more travel tips, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media.